HELP HER JOURNEY TO CONTINUE

From a little stumble out on a winter walk by the Lachine Canal in 1997 to crippling paralysis (needs assistance feeding, cleaning and rotation in bed every two hours) and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing liquids) in 2022, my wife Susan Gabori is now a resident at the Donald Berman Maimonides long term care centre in Montreal where her needs have grown far beyond our financial means.

 

Daughter of Hungarian refugees, accomplished filmmaker, published author, and love of my life, Susan was diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis in 2000. For 22 years we have journeyed together through an education in handicaps: the cane, the 3 pronged cane, the paleo diet, the foot drop muscle simulator, the walkers, the folding walker/wheelchair, the full wheelchair, the heavy adapted wheelchair, the increasing litany of medications and treatments.

 

Accompanied by much laughter. Much hope. And loss.


A spectacular fall down two flights of stairs. A Jane Fonda exercise disciple, her legs bent far back by tendons taut as piano wires, unable to stand on her feet. A connoisseur of face creams unable to touch her face. An inventive cook unable to swallow. An award winning writer powerless to read, write or hold a book.

 

Some of Susan’s best qualities remain unchanged – a sharp mind, youthful looks and the equivalent of perfect pitch in her palate. We both miss her biscottes, her Claes Oldenburg cake, brunch at L’Express, nights out at the movies, country outings. We listen to Glenn Gould. I read Imre Kertesz to her. Susan continues to be blessed with a sense of humor, uncomplaining courage, wisdom, interest in the world and inherent class.

 

I say: “You are breaking my heart.”

She says: “That’s ok. I’ve got all the pieces.”

 

Your support and prayers will be immensely appreciated.

 

Thank you for sharing this page.

 

SUSAN’S NEEDS:

 

Physiotherapy                        1,800 (yearly)

Adaptive clothing                     500 (yearly)

Specialized bed supports    800 (one time)

Communication systems   130 (monthly)

Feeding Companions        1,800 (monthly)

 

Fundraising goal $26,260 for 2022-2023